Game: Climate change species trumps

Biology: Interactions and interdependencies

Relationships in an ecosystem

• the interdependence of organisms in an ecosystem, including food webs and insect pollinated crops

Genetics and evolution: Inheritance, chromosomes, DNA and genes

• the variation between species and between individuals of the same species means some organisms compete more successfully, which can drive natural selection
• changes in the environment may leave individuals within a species, and some entire species, less well adapted to compete successfully and reproduce, which in turn may lead to extinction

Working Scientifically Skills

Experimental skills and investigations

• ask questions and develop a line of enquiry based on observations of the real world, alongside prior knowledge and experience
• make predictions using scientific knowledge and understanding

Planet Earth

Biodiversity and Interdependence

I understand how animal and plant species depend on each other and how living things are adapted for survival. I can predict the impact of population growth and natural hazards on biodiversity. SCN 4-01a

• Describes how plants and animals depend on each other for food, shelter and pollination, using scientific vocabulary such as ‘population’, ‘community’ and ‘species’.
• Explains the possible effects of removal or addition of species on food webs and biodiversity.
• Summarises research findings to provide examples of structural, physiological and behavioural adaptations which lead to species survival.

Processes of the planet

I can explain some of the processes which contribute to climate change and discuss the possible impact of atmospheric change on the survival of living things. SCN 3-05b

• Explains how the levels of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere have increased over time, for example, through respiration of organisms, deforestation and increased combustion of fuels.
• Draws on supporting evidence, quotes and sources to demonstrate an association between carbon dioxide in the atmosphere and increasing global temperatures as a result of the greenhouse effect.

Third Level Scientific Skills

Scientific Analytical Thinking Skills:

• Applies scientific analytical thinking skills, with increasing independence, working with less familiar and more complex contexts.
• Demonstrates further development of creative thinking including through the engineering processes of design, construction, testing and modification.

Skills and Attributes of Scientifically Literate Citizens:

• Expresses informed views about topical scientific issues, including those featured in the media, based on evidence and demonstrating understanding of underlying scientific concepts.

Science AOLE

Living Things:

• I can describe the interdependence of organisms in ecosystems and explain how this affects their chances of survival.
• I can explain how reproduction, mutations and the environment can lead to variation and adaptations within organisms which can affect their chances of survival.

Humanities AOLE

Natural World:

• I can describe and give simple explanations about the impact of human actions on the natural world.

Curriculum Subject Links

• The environment and human influences
• Explore the importance of biodiversity, how it impacts on our lives and how it is affected by human activity
• Investigate the effects of pollution, for example, water, air, land, sound etc. and specific measures to improve and protect the environment, for example, renewable energy, efficient use of resources and waste minimisation etc.
• Investigate what can be done to conserve and promote biodiversity, for example, school wildlife gardens / wilderness areas, anti-pollution strategies, habitat management etc.

Curriculum Skill Links

• Thinking, Problem-Solving and Decision-Making
• Develop creative and critical thinking in their approach to solving scientific problems
• Demonstrate creativity and initiative when developing ideas and following them through
• Work effectively with others